European Commission adopts OceanEye to strengthen Europe's leadership in ocean observation
3 June 2026
The European Commission has officially adopted OceanEye, a new initiative designed to strengthen Europe's role in ocean observation and position the European Union as a global leader in ocean intelligence.
As part of the implementation of the European Ocean Pact, OceanEye aims to contribute to 35% of the global ocean observing system by 2035 while securing 35% of the global market for ocean observation technologies. The initiative recognises the critical role that sustained ocean observations play in supporting ocean protection and restoration, climate forecasting, maritime safety, blue economy sectors, and informed policymaking.
Despite covering more than 70% of the Earth's surface, the ocean remains largely unexplored. OceanEye seeks to address this challenge by improving coordination across European ocean observing activities, enhancing international cooperation, accelerating technological innovation, and increasing public engagement with ocean science.
Four pillars for a stronger European Ocean Observing System
The initiative is built around four strategic pillars:
Pillar I: EU governance – supporting the European Ocean Observing System
This pillar focuses on strengthening in situ ocean observations, improving data sharing and use, and establishing a European governance framework that better connects national, European and international ocean observing efforts. It also includes the development of a European Digital Ocean System that will integrate existing European marine knowledge services and support the operationalisation of the European Digital Twin Ocean.
Pillar II: The international dimension
OceanEye aims to strengthen the global ocean observing system through the creation of an International Alliance, bringing together countries, philanthropic organisations and private partners to support sustained ocean observations worldwide. The initiative will also reinforce cooperation with UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) and help address critical observation gaps in regions such as the Arctic, the deep ocean and the Southern Hemisphere.
Pillar III: The operational and industrial dimension
This pillar focuses on operationalising the European Digital Twin Ocean and strengthening Europe's ocean observation innovation and industrial base. It aims to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced ocean technologies, support deep-tech innovation, and enhance Europe's competitiveness in the growing global ocean observation market.
Pillar IV: Strategic partnerships, education and skills, culture and societal ownership
OceanEye seeks to strengthen collaboration with public and private partners while bringing ocean observation closer to society. Through education, skills development, cultural initiatives and public engagement activities, the initiative aims to foster ocean literacy, inspire future ocean professionals and strengthen society's connection with the ocean.